UK weather: Met Office issues ‘danger to life’ amber weather warning in Scotland as heavy rain, flooding expected

By admin On Dec 16, 2023

Heavy rain is expected to sweep across northwest Scotland causing potential floods and landslides, forecasters have said.

The Met Office has issued a series of weather warnings, starting with a yellow warning from 6pm on Saturday and an amber warning from midnight – with prolonged downpours expected to lead to some flooding and travel disruption.

Power cuts are possible and driving conditions are likely to be difficult, with “fast flowing or deep floodwater likely, causing danger to life”, the agency has warned.

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Between 10 and 15cm of rain could fall in the region this weekend, potentially rising to 20cm in some west-facing upslopes.

The warning covers the whole west of Scotland north of Helensburgh, apart from the Outer Hebrides and a handful of other islands on the western coast.

Anyone travelling in the affected area has been asked to plan ahead before setting off.

Ferry operator CalMac announced on Twitter/X there are cancellations over the weekend, with potential disruption to other services.

One cancelled service is its Tarbert – Lochmaddy ferry.

Met Office spokesman Grahame Madge said: “Strong southwesterly winds will feed in a prolonged and heavy spell of rain.

“In some areas up to 200mm of rainfall could be recorded, but 100-150mm is more likely across the wider warning area.

“In addition to the usual risks associated with high rainfall, there is the potential for landslides across the south of the Highland region and Argyll.”

Chief Superintendent Hilary Sloan, the head of road policing in Scotland, asked people to “consider if your journey is really necessary during the bad weather or if it can be delayed until conditions improve”.

David Scott, the flood duty manager at the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (Sepa), urged people not to drive into flood water.

He said: “30cm of fast flowing water can move an average family sized car, and just 15cm of fast flowing water could be enough to knock you off your feet.”

Scottish transport minister Fiona Hyslop has asked people to use common sense.

She said: “Our trunk road teams will be out on the network to tackle any issues, but it’s important motorists also play their part and plan their journeys before setting off.

“Make sure your route is available, follow the travel advice from Police Scotland, and drive in accordance with the conditions.

“If you are planning to travel by train, ferry or plane, please check with your operators.”

The rain is expected to worsen throughout Saturday night, with the Met Office upping the warning to amber on Sunday.

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